Looking ahead, without looking back (too often)

sweetness of honey ~ haibun

From the time my eight-year-old daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation has been a resource and source of inspiration for my family. Offering education about blood glucose management and group events that bring together children and young adults who do not have to feel conspicuous in their special needs; providing a support network of parents who can offer insight and advice regarding the many challenges facing our children; and offering genuine concern for each new child diagnosed. These are the resources provided by JDRF.

The goal of JDRF is to find a cure for diabetes. The numerous fundraising events held by each chapter throughout the year that allow it to provide these resources also allow it to underwrite major research in medication and technology aimed at finding a cure for this deadly disease. One of those events is the Walk to Cure Diabetes (now JDRF/One Walk), and the Western New York Walk raises several hundred thousand dollars each year. Our family team, composed of friends and relatives, participated in the Walk for eleven years. It seemed only natural to support a cause that is so close to our hearts, and our team was able to collect over $60,000 for JDRF. One day, there will be a cure.

Thank you for sharing this – good to know. I’ve had several adult friends who grew up with Diabetes, but they did not share what that was like (perhaps because it was their normal?) Conformity pressures are so intense in teenage years – “different” in any way challenges. Your daughter’s success is heart warming. One of those blossom surprises.

Such an important cause, Ken – for your daughter and others. (Diabetes seems to have become epidemic and it’s crucial we find better ways to treat and prevent.) So glad your daughter is doing well and helping others. Congratulations!

Thank you, Betty. My siblings and parents are/were type 2 diabetic, but my daughter’s illness came as a surprise, as we didn’t know of anyone in the family with type 1. She’s had an insulin pump since her second year, but she went off the pump for about 3 years because she would need to remove it for athletic events and every practice. Once she was in college she went right back to the insulin pump and she’s always watching the news for development of an “artificial” pancreas. She is so good with kids that I’m sure she will be a positive role model.

Ken, sorry to hear she was diagnosed with it at such an early age. I know type 1 usually begins in childhood but second year is so young. Glad the pump has been working for her all these years. She sounds really strong, and you must be proud of all she’s doing. Hopefully someday there will be such a thing as an artificial pancreas. Wishing her all the best!

Thank you, Betty. She was diagnosed when she was eight and was on shots for a little over a year before switching to the pump. I should have been more clear about that. Children’s Hospital in Buffalo was insisting on waiting for children to be early teens, but relented and no longer makes children wait.